WindEurope has called on European Union Energy Ministers to commit to a legally binding 2040 renewable energy target ahead of their energy policy discussions scheduled for 26 June, warning that the absence of a clear post-2030 framework could undermine investment confidence and slow Europe’s clean energy transition.
The industry association said the EU’s existing 2030 renewable energy target has successfully accelerated the deployment of wind and solar power, strengthened Europe’s energy security, reduced exposure to volatile fossil fuel prices, and attracted billions of euros in manufacturing investments. However, it cautioned that uncertainty beyond 2030 risks weakening the momentum built over recent years.
According to WindEurope, the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and persistent concerns over energy prices further reinforce the need for greater reliance on domestically generated renewable electricity.
WindEurope CEO Tinne van der Straeten stressed that a binding 2040 renewable energy target, supported by dedicated wind deployment volumes, is essential for providing long-term investment certainty.
“Only a binding 2040 renewables target with dedicated wind volumes can drive the investments the EU seeks. Capital flows to clarity. Europe needs an unmistakable political signal for more home-grown, competitive and renewable electricity beyond 2030,” van der Straeten said.
The organisation highlighted the strategic importance of Europe’s wind energy sector, noting that wind power currently supplies around 20% of the continent’s electricity while supporting more than 440,000 jobs across over 250 manufacturing facilities. Over the past three years, the European wind industry has invested more than €15 billion in new and upgraded manufacturing plants, reflecting growing industrial capacity across the region.
WindEurope warned that maintaining this industrial base will require consistent policy support and long-term market visibility.
“Targets work. A binding 2040 renewables target is a clear signal to investors, project developers and the supply chain. Real projects, real factories, real jobs. Once industrial capacity is lost, you can’t claw it back,” van der Straeten added.
Beyond setting a renewable energy target, WindEurope also called for stronger governance measures. The association urged EU Member States to translate national energy and climate plans into technology-specific renewable energy auctions while ensuring effective implementation of measures designed to accelerate project permitting, facilitate wind farm repowering, and expand the use of renewable power purchase agreements (PPAs).
As EU Energy Ministers convene to discuss the bloc’s future energy strategy, WindEurope said policymakers face a critical decision between reinforcing the policy framework that has driven Europe’s renewable energy growth or risking uncertainty that could slow future investments and industrial development.
